by Kala Loptien

He Knows

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking the Sound Cloud link.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Hebrews 4:15-16 English Standard Version

A new series of commercials started surfacing on prime time tv a few years ago. They even claimed a coveted spot in the Superbowl commercial lineup. Images of pain, struggle, good neighbors and acts of kindness flash across the screen, with the key catch phrase being, Jesus: He Gets Us. They often place emphasis on “us” at the end of His name. I get it. And I personally love seeing Jesus being front and center during such high-profile events. (Especially when in conjunction with coaches and athletes giving glory where it’s due during their interviews.)

I’m curious how many viewers take the time to really think about what this means. There are probably several who are confused by it. The seed is planted; then His Word provides our answers. Hebrews helps really define this glorious, unparalleled truth. God designated Jesus–fully human, yet fully God — to live among us. He encountered struggles. He watched friends lose loved ones. He lost loved ones. He confronted the sinners and the sick. He endured pain and suffering, far beyond what we could ever imagine. Then He fulfilled God’s perfect plan by living and dying in perfect obedience to His Father. All of this so He could become the eternal source of salvation (Hebrews 5: 8-9).

What a God we serve! It’s beyond all human comprehension. It’s why there isn’t another “god” (created by human brains) throughout all history that even comes close to measuring up to the God of the Universe and Author of Life. There’s no greater act of love. Our God sent His son here — to this crazy place. He knew we needed a Chief Priest to not only be our source of salvation; but one that truly empathizes with our broken hearts and understands the tears we cry. And again for our benefit, we have this confidence knowing He really gets us, and we can approach His throne of grace. Thanks be to God.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado